Criminal Defense
Weapon Charges Defense Attorney in San Diego
California's gun laws are among the strictest in the nation. One misstep can become a felony. We protect your rights and your freedom.
California has some of the most complex and unforgiving firearm laws in the country, and a weapons charge in San Diego can escalate from a paperwork problem into a felony with life-altering consequences. Many of our clients are lawful gun owners who ran afoul of a technical rule — an out-of-state permit that isn't honored here, a magazine that exceeds California's limit, or a firearm transported the wrong way. Others face serious allegations tied to another offense. At Tegnelia & DeBose, APC, we examine whether the search that produced the weapon was legal, whether you actually possessed or controlled it, and whether a valid exception applies. We fight illegal-search issues, constructive-possession theories, and sentence-enhancing allegations to protect your freedom and, where possible, your right to own firearms.
What We Handle
Charges & Cases We Defend
Our defense covers the full range of related charges and proceedings. If your situation isn't listed, call us — we handle it.
(619) 876-0992The Process
How We Defend Your Case
Every case is different, but our approach is disciplined and relentless from the first call to the final resolution.
Challenge the Search
We investigate how police found the weapon and move to suppress evidence obtained through an unlawful stop or search.
Contest Possession
We test the state's proof that you knowingly possessed or controlled the firearm — not merely that it was nearby.
Fight Enhancements
We attack firearm-use enhancements that can add years to a sentence, keeping exposure as low as the facts allow.
Protect Your Rights
We pursue dismissal or reduction and, where eligible, work to preserve or restore your firearm rights.
Weapons Charge Penalties in California
Firearm offenses range from misdemeanors to serious felonies, and enhancements can add substantial prison time. This is general information, not legal advice.
- Concealed/loaded-carry violations: 'wobblers' with jail or prison exposure
- Felon in possession: felony carrying state prison time
- Assault-weapon and magazine violations: felony exposure
- Firearm enhancements (PC 12022.53) add years, even decades
- Any conviction can permanently strip firearm rights
The Difference
Why Hire a Private Criminal Defense Attorney
When your freedom and future are at stake, the right advocate makes all the difference. Here's what you get with a dedicated private defense team.
Time & Attention
Public defenders are overworked and stretched thin. We limit our caseload so your case gets the focus it deserves.
Early Intervention
We get involved from day one — often before charges are filed — when the biggest opportunities to change the outcome exist.
Independent Investigation
We deploy our own investigators and experts rather than relying on the police report the prosecution hands us.
Direct Access
You work directly with your attorney, not a rotating cast. Call, text, or email — we keep you informed at every step.
FAQ
Weapon Charges Defense FAQs
Answers to common questions about weapon charges defense cases in San Diego.
Usually not. California generally does not honor out-of-state CCW permits, so carrying here can be charged as a crime even if you're licensed elsewhere. We defend these good-faith cases aggressively.
Charged with Weapon Charges? Don't wait.
The sooner we get involved, the more we can do. Your first consultation is free.
Related Practice Areas
Explore Related Defenses
Get a Free, Confidential Case Review
Speak directly with Attorney Marcus DeBose about your case. No pressure, no judgment — just a clear plan to protect your future.
- Free Consultation
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- Former Prosecutor Insight